Migraine – So Much More Than Just A Bad Headache

Migraine is an extremely common and debilitating problem that has confounded scientists for decades. Migraine symptoms include extremely powerful, recurring headaches that are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as visual disturbances, nausea and vomiting. The symptoms of migraine can persist for anything from a few hours to two days.

Migraine triggers can often be identified, a few being intolerance to specific foods, bright light, loud noise, or strong smells. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those related to the monthly cycle, can also be a factor, as can emotional upsets or stresses, including those related to past traumas and memories.

As every case is different the Ayurvedic approach to migraine treatment is according to the individual’s imbalances. Cases can be quite extreme, such as that of the patient who came to the clinic reporting both migraine and epileptic seizures after eating apples. It later transpired that the patient had no reaction when the apple was peeled, and furthermore the problem only occurred with red apples. Interestingly, anticonvulsant drugs used to treat migraine are frequently the same as those used for epilepsy. Similarly in Ayurveda the same medicines will often be used to treat either problem. The herb Jatamansi is frequently used to calm hyperactive neuron cells; while calming the brain it has the ability to simultaneously enhance mental clarity.

In some cases Ayurveda sees migraine causes as being primarily a Vata imbalance – a case of too much or too little air, in which case Vata balancing herbs are used. If there is excess heat this points to excess Pitta, and Pitta reducing herbs will be chosen. The digestive system is a vital priority in migraine treatment as poor digestion causes an accumulation of toxins in the brain tissue, blocking the channels of the circulation and elimination, so that nutrients are unable to reach the nerve cells and waste cannot be eliminated.

Other beneficial Ayurvedic migraine treatment would be herbal oil massages, and flexibility and breathing exercises (Pranayama). Dietary and lifestyle management, the latter with a view to reducing stress, are a necessary part of the process.

While causes of migraines and therefore treatments vary from one person to the next, the fundamental aim of Ayurvedic treatment is to remove toxins from the organs and systems in which they have accumulated, and by optimising the digestion to prevent this situation from recurring. A lasting solution for migraine relief cannot possibly be achieved by suppression.

If you are suffering with migraine symptoms and need help with migraine treatment call us on 1300 552 260 for free consultation or book an appointment with Yatan Holistic Health Healing Ayurvedic Centre in Australia Sydney.